View full sizeRutgers class of 2014 OT commit, Jacquis webbPhoto provided by Webb, used with permission

Gates-Chili (Rochester, N.Y.) offensive tackle, Jacquis Webb, committed to the Scarlet Knights, Saturday, adding to the depth Rutgers is formulating up front to compete against the big uglies in the Big Ten conference. Webb, a 6-4, 320-pounder, received an offer from Rutgers in mid-February and felt inclined to accept after an unofficial visit to campus, this past weekend.

“I was participating in a lineman challenge (NLA Showcase) in New Jersey that Friday, and I went to Rutgers that Saturday morning,” he said. “I had told Coach (Norries) Wilson and Coach Wrobo (Wroblewski) that I was going to be down there that weekend. So then they asked me if I was going to come down to Rutgers, and I said, ‘Yes.’”

Webb arrived at the Rutgers campus with his 7-on-7 team from the Rochester area, and took a tour of Rutgers’ facilities. At the conclusion of the tour, Webb had seen enough to make an informed decision about his future.

“I was in the office with Coach Flood earlier in the day, and he said he wants me. And he said, ‘After you go on the tour, at the end of the day, if you want to make your decision, it’s up to you.’ Then we met again after the tour, and he asked me, simply, ‘Do you want to be here?’ And I said, ‘Yes.’ And that’s how my commitment came about.”

Webb further expanded on the intricacies of the conversation he had with Coach Flood that led up to his Rutgers pledge.

“He said he didn’t want to pressure me, and I told him I didn’t feel pressured and that Rutgers was my top choice,” said Webb. “And he asked me if I wanted to be a part of the class of 2014, and I was like, ‘Yes, I don’t want to be anywhere else.’”

According to Webb, the Scarlet Knights are recruiting him to play offensive tackle due to his “speed and footwork.” However, Webb also brings value at the offensive guard position due to his wide frame and raw offensive ability.

The massive tackle, who is being recruited primarily by Rutgers assistant head coach, Norries Wilson, feels honored to be a part of the Rutgers family.

“I feel that it’s a big accomplishment to now be considered a Scarlet Knight,” he said. “Out of all the schools recruiting me, they’ve shown me the most love. They stayed in contact with me the most out of any other school, and that made the difference.”

Webb selected the Scarlet Knights over offers from the University of Buffalo and Old Dominion. He was expected to reap increased recruiting attention before deciding to shut down his recruitment and take sides with Rutgers.

Rutgers’ proximity to Webb’s home also is said to have played a big part in his Rutgers commitment. He plans to major in some form of communications.